Comparison of Cardiological Problems and Common Health Problems of Syrian and Turkish School-age Children

INTRODUCTION: Childhood health problems can lead to bigger problems in the future if not diagnosed early. Low socio-economic levels are closely related to the health of children, and more health problems are expected. This study aims to identify the health problems of Syrian refugee and Turkish school-age children and evaluate the common problems to plan health services accordingly.
METHODS: The study was planned to be conducted at schools in determined districts. Informed consent forms were prepared in Turkish and Arabic and delivered to 14,514 Turkish and Syrian refugee children. The field visits of the study were completed between April–June 2019. A total of 12,603 children—2,101 Turkish and 10,502 Syrian—were examined by trained health personnel and doctors in 31 planned schools in the districts using the designed examination form.
RESULTS: 12,603 students underwent health examinations; 7,025 students were found appropriate for further examination and tests, and 3,961 students were referred to hospitals for treatment. The most common health problems were dental issues and upper respiratory tract diseases. Acute rheumatic fever was detected in four children, and mitral valve insufficiency was detected in two children.
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Consequently, our study revealed the need to refer 10,986 of the 12,603 children for further examination, tests, or treatment. The study aimed to determine the health problems of school-age Syrian immigrants and Turkish children and to shed light on the health services to be provided.